Articulating American Principles & Values

Statement by Congressman Allen West on the Temporary Extension of the Payroll Tax

(WASHINGTON)-— Congressman Allen West (R-FL) released this statement today on the Temporary Extension of the Payroll Tax:

“Americans once again have reason to be ashamed with their elected officials as President Barack Obama and United States Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid are playing a game of chicken for political gain at the expense of the American people suffering under failed economic policies. This two month amendment proposed today is nothing more than a short-term band aid. Americans are looking for certainty and confidence in the American economy and today’s substitute amendment passed by the Senate delivers neither to the American people.

The United States Senate continues to let down the American people, more than 950 days without accomplishing even the most basic of responsibilities to pass a budget and ignoring more than 25 job creating bills passed on a bipartisan basis by the House of Representatives. The Senate’s Substitute Amendment to Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2011 H.R. 3630 is nothing but typical liberal Democrat incrementalism and political gimmickry to continue to debate these issues into the election year.

I will not be voting for this short term fix when it comes to the floor of the House of Representatives. I will only vote to reaffirm the Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act as passed by the House of Representatives.

The Senate’s Substitute Amendment is yet another disappointment to the American people. Our nation is desperately seeking leadership in our Nation’s Capital not crises management. I stand ready to return to Capitol Hill and stay there until will get the mission done.”